A Silent Global Crisis: Suicide Attempts on the Rise

By Shumaila Azam Khan

According to World Health Organization (WHO) more than 720,000 people die by suicide annually and for each death, there are many more attempts.

There is mounting evidence—both internationally and within Pakistan that suicide attempts are rising at a deeply alarming rate. Mental-health professionals warn that this trend reflects an intensifying crisis of psychological distress, particularly among vulnerable and marginalized communities.

Globally, suicide remains a leading cause of death among young people.Declines in suicide deaths over decades do not necessarily mean fewer attempts; there are several regions and demographics where self-harm and attempts remain high. According to experts, suicide has become the 4th most common cause of death among Pakistani youth — a distressing statistic given that a large portion of the population is young.

📌 Trends & Concerns in Pakistan

In some cases, methods of suicide are especially disturbing: reports suggest that 40% of suicides in recent years in Pakistan are due to extreme distress, and possibly reflecting lack of access to other means or a cry for help rather than intent to die.

📌 Why Attempts Might Be Increasing

Several overlapping factors likely contribute:

♦Growing prevalence of mental health disorders (depression & anxiety.

♦Economic hardship, unemployment, poverty, and financial stress.

♦Eocial pressures — youth face academic stress, family pressures, peer pressure, and lack of opportunities.

♦Lack of mental-health services and stigma: in many places, there aren’t enough trained professionals; people may hesitate to seek help.

Trauma, disasters, losses — in communities facing instability, displacement, environmental disasters or conflict, mental health and suicidal behaviour often spike.

📌 Prevention & Awareness

Experts and health organizations emphasise the need for:

♦Better mental-health care access, psychiatric counselling and support services.

♦Awareness campaigns to reduce the stigma around depression and suicide, so people feel safe seeking help.

♦Early detection and support for people showing signs of distress, especially youth and people facing social or economic hardship.

📌 Hold on to Hope: Trust in Allah

In today’s world, many young and old are struggling silently with pain, stress, and hopelessness but there is always a light in the darkness: trust in Allah Almighty.

The Qur’an reminds us:

“ Do not despair of the mercy of Allah.” (39:53 )

No matter how heavy life’s burdens feel, Allah’s mercy is greater. Every hardship is a test, not a punishment. Those who connect with Allah through prayer, remembrance, and faith find strength, patience, and hope even in the toughest moments.

Suicide ends lives permanently, yet problems are often temporary. With trust in Allah, hearts can heal, and paths forward can open. Faith gives courage where despair seeks to take over. Hope shines where darkness seems endless.

Let us support each other, speak to those who are in pain and remind ourselves and others that Allah never abandons His servants. In His mercy, there is always a way forward — a chance to breathe, to heal, and to continue